Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the body’s moisture-producing glands, leading to chronic dry eye and dry mouth. For patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, routine eye exams are essential to prevent complications like corneal damage, infections, and increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which may signal the onset of glaucoma. However, conventional methods of IOP measurement, like Goldmann applanation tonometry, Tono-Pen, and iCare, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, trigger discomfort, and lead to inaccurate IOP readings.
The Diaton Transpalpebral Scleral Tonometer offers a much-needed solution. Unlike traditional tonometers, which require direct corneal contact, the Diaton measures IOP through the eyelid and sclera, providing accurate, non-invasive measurements while preserving patient comfort. This innovative technology is particularly beneficial for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, where corneal health and patient comfort are already compromised.
Why Traditional Tonometers Are Problematic for Sjögren’s Patients
- Worsening of Dry Eye Symptoms
- Problem: Goldmann applanation tonometry requires the use of numbing eye drops (proparacaine), which, although temporary, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms by washing away the eye’s natural tear film. For patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, this can worsen existing dryness, irritation, and discomfort.
- Diaton Solution: The Diaton tonometer does not require anesthetic drops since it measures IOP through the eyelid. This eliminates the risk of further disrupting the tear film, making it a superior choice for patients with chronic dry eye.
- Patient Discomfort and Anxiety
- Problem: Contact tonometers, like Tono-Pen or Goldmann, require physical contact with the cornea. For patients with corneal hyperesthesia (sensitivity to corneal touch), this process can cause pain, reflexive blinking, and anxiety, leading to unreliable IOP readings.
- Diaton Solution: The Diaton tonometer eliminates corneal contact entirely. By measuring IOP through the upper eyelid and sclera, patients experience a painless and stress-free procedure, which is especially beneficial for patients with sensitive eyes or anxiety about eye exams.
- Inaccurate Readings Due to Corneal Damage
- Problem: Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome often develop punctate epithelial erosions or corneal scarring due to chronic dryness, which can affect the accuracy of IOP readings obtained using corneal-based tonometry methods.
- Diaton Solution: The Diaton tonometer is independent of corneal integrity, as it bypasses the cornea entirely. This enables accurate IOP readings in patients with corneal scarring, erosions, or epithelial damage.
- Risk of Cross-Contamination and Infection
- Problem: Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome may have a weakened ocular surface barrier, making them more susceptible to infections. Traditional tonometers require physical contact with the cornea, increasing the risk of cross-contamination if disinfection protocols aren’t strictly followed.
- Diaton Solution: The Diaton tonometer avoids contact with the cornea or mucous membranes, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. This is particularly relevant in high-volume screening events or hospitals where many patients are tested consecutively.
Benefits of Diaton Tonometer for Patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome
- No Corneal Contact = No Dry Eye Disruption
The Diaton tonometer bypasses the cornea, ensuring that the tear film remains intact. This is critical for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, where even slight disruptions to the tear film can cause hours or days of discomfort. No eye drops are required, and the corneal surface remains undisturbed. - Painless, Non-Invasive Testing
Traditional tonometry methods involve touching the cornea, which can feel invasive and uncomfortable. The Diaton, however, measures IOP through the eyelid, allowing for a painless, anxiety-free experience. This is especially beneficial for patients with sensitive eyes or corneal hyperesthesia, which are common in Sjögren’s syndrome. - Accurate IOP Readings Despite Corneal Changes
In patients with corneal erosion, punctate keratitis, or corneal thinning, IOP readings obtained via Goldmann applanation may be skewed. The Diaton tonometer delivers consistent, accurate readings, as its measurements are unaffected by corneal integrity or central corneal thickness (CCT). - Reduced Infection Risk
Since Diaton avoids corneal contact and does not require sterilization of tips or covers, it significantly reduces the risk of infection. This is especially important for patients with a weakened ocular surface, which is common in Sjögren’s syndrome. - Suitable for Pediatric, Elderly, and Anxious Patients
Children, elderly patients, and those with ocular hypersensitivity due to dry eye often have difficulty tolerating corneal tonometry. The Diaton is stress-free, painless, and requires minimal cooperation from the patient, making it a preferred option for these populations.
Clinical Use Cases for Diaton in Sjögren’s Patients
- Routine IOP Monitoring in Patients with Dry Eye
Many patients with Sjögren’s syndrome require frequent IOP checks due to their increased risk of glaucoma. Using the Diaton tonometer eliminates the need for corneal anesthetics and avoids disturbing the ocular surface, preserving the patient’s comfort. - Emergency Eye Exams in Urgent Care or Hospitals
Emergency departments often see patients with eye pain, dryness, or corneal erosions related to Sjögren’s. The Diaton allows IOP to be measured safely and accurately, even when the cornea is damaged or compromised. - Post-Surgical IOP Monitoring
Many patients with Sjögren’s syndrome undergo surgeries like punctal plug placement or other ocular surface procedures. Since the Diaton avoids the cornea, it can safely monitor IOP post-surgery without risking surgical site disruption. - Large-Scale Screening and Mass Glaucoma Events
Mass glaucoma screenings often face logistical challenges related to corneal contact and anesthetic drop use. The Diaton simplifies the process, as no corneal contact, no drops, and no lens removal are needed. This is critical for large-scale events where efficiency, patient comfort, and hygiene are paramount. - Special Populations (Children, Elderly, and Patients with Ocular Hypersensitivity)
Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome may be more sensitive to corneal touch. Children, elderly, and anxious patients who have ocular hypersensitivity benefit from the painless, non-invasive nature of the Diaton tonometer.
How the Diaton Tonometer Works
The Diaton tonometer uses a transpalpebral, trans-scleral method to measure IOP. It places a lightweight probe on the upper eyelid (above the tarsal plate) and applies a gentle force. By using a mathematical model of displacement, the device calculates IOP without requiring corneal interaction. This process takes only 1-2 seconds and can be performed by ophthalmic technicians, nurses, or general staff, freeing up doctors to focus on diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
The Diaton Transpalpebral Scleral Tonometer is a revolutionary tool for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, addressing the many challenges posed by traditional tonometry. By avoiding the cornea, the Diaton eliminates the need for anesthetic eye drops, reduces infection risk, and provides accurate readings for patients with dry eyes, corneal erosions, and corneal scars. It offers a painless, fast, and non-invasive solution for routine eye care, hospital use, emergency eye exams, and glaucoma screenings.
For healthcare professionals treating patients with chronic dry eye disease or Sjögren’s syndrome, the Diaton is a must-have diagnostic tool. Its ability to improve patient comfort, eliminate infection risks, and maintain tear film integrity makes it an invaluable resource in both clinical and community-based healthcare settings.
To learn more about the Diaton tonometer, visit TonometerDiaton.com Dial: 1-877-342-8667
